Chancey Williams sings the song "The World Needs More Cowboys."

Over the last few years, the world has produced more of them thanks to TV shows like Yellowstone, Longmire, Landman, Hell on Wheels, 1883, and 1923.

They may be dime-store cowboys, but the look has taken off thanks to those shows.

When Rip (Cole Hauser) debuted in Yellowstone in June of 2018, the world went wild for the cowboy style. For the last few years, the Rip & Beth Halloween costume has been one of the top choices for couples.

Because of the popularity of those shows, the cowboy look has spread far and wide. People dress like cowboys everywhere, but do they know the backstory of why cowboys wear the clothes they do?

There are five main reasons behind the cowboy look:

  1. Protection
  2. Functionality
  3. Culture
  4. Activities
  5. Easy Maintenence

 Protection

Cowboy Hat: Protects the face and neck from the elements.

Long-sleeved shirt: Protects the arms from scratches from the sun, branches, thorns, and rope burns.

Cowboy boots: Offer support and protection from debris that could cause injury if stepped on.

Cowboy jacket: Thick denim jackets offer extra protection on the upper body and an added layer against the weather.

Functionality

Movement: Jeans and shirts are designed with a loose fit, giving them unrestricted movement when riding, roping, or working.

Durability: Denim and leather are staples of Western wear because they are durable and offer protection.

Culture

The cowboy style has existed for hundreds of years and remains true to its origins. Although regional differences exist in clothing use, the roots are the same.

Activities

The clothing is multifunctional and allows for comfort while ranching, horseback riding, roping/herding, and working with livestock.

Maintenance

The sturdy fabrics, construction, functional fasteners, and designs help make them easier to maintain.

Stunning Pictures of the Wild Horses of Sand Wash Basin

The Sand Wash Basin HMA (Herd Management Area) is located in the northwest corner of Colorado, about 50 miles west of Craig, Colorado, and is home to over 800 wild horses. Scott Wilson is a Colorado photographer who was recently able to capture some amazing pictures of the herd.

Gallery Credit: Scott Wilson

Take A Look At Lusk's New Cowboy Themed Mural

Lisa Norman created "Way Out West" to celebrate our Wyoming culture and encourage visitors to see themselves as part of our Western history.

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